If you’ve noticed a bump forming at the base of your big toe or pain that makes it difficult to wear certain shoes, you might be dealing with a bunion — a common but often misunderstood foot condition.
Bunions can start small but tend to worsen over time, gradually changing the alignment of your toe and affecting the way you walk. The good news? Modern orthopaedic treatments — including advanced surgical options — can relieve pain and restore function so you can get back on your feet comfortably.
What Is a Bunion?
A bunion (or hallux valgus) is a bony bump that forms when the big toe drifts towards the smaller toes. This shift puts pressure on the joint, leading to inflammation, pain, and swelling.
Over time, the deformity can become more noticeable and may make it hard to find comfortable footwear. In some cases, bunions can also cause corns, calluses, or overlapping toes.
Why Bunions Develop
There’s no single cause of bunions — but several factors can increase your risk:
- Family history: Bunions often run in families due to inherited foot structure.
- Footwear: Tight or narrow shoes, especially those with pointed toes or high heels, can worsen existing deformities.
- Flat feet or joint laxity: Certain foot shapes place more stress on the big toe joint.
- Arthritis: Degenerative or inflammatory joint changes can also contribute to bunion formation.
When to See a Specialist
You don’t need to wait until your bunion becomes severe to seek help.
Consider seeing a specialist if you experience:
- Ongoing pain or swelling around the big toe joint
- Difficulty finding shoes that fit comfortably
- Restricted movement of your big toe
- A visible change in toe alignment
Addressing bunions early can help prevent long-term joint damage and improve your comfort during daily activities.
Treatment Options
Bunion treatment depends on how advanced the deformity is and how much it affects your lifestyle.
Non-surgical options may include:
- Wearing wider, supportive footwear
- Using padding or orthotics to reduce pressure
- Taking anti-inflammatory medication as needed
- Using ice or rest for short-term symptom relief
If these measures no longer control your symptoms or the bunion continues to progress, surgical correction may be recommended.
Modern bunion surgery focuses on realigning the bones and restoring normal joint function. Procedures are often performed as day surgery, and many patients can bear weight on their foot soon after. Recovery times vary depending on the complexity of the correction, but most people return to normal activities within weeks to months.
The Benefits of Specialist Care
Seeing an orthopaedic foot and ankle specialist ensures you receive an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Dr Ryan du Sart uses evidence-based techniques and modern surgical approaches to achieve long-lasting results and faster recovery for his patients.
He will assess your bunion, discuss conservative and surgical options, and guide you through what to expect before and after treatment.
How to Book an Appointment
Dr Ryan du Sart consults at
Brecken Health Care in South Bunbury.
To see Dr du Sart, simply
ask your GP for a referral — it’s a quick and easy process.
Early assessment can make a big difference in managing bunion pain and preventing further joint changes. If your bunion is affecting your comfort or mobility, talk to your GP about a referral today.
Book Your Appointment Today
Your first appointment is the start of your recovery journey—and we’re here to help make it a confident one.
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Call (08) 9779 9767
🌐 Book Online at www.ryandusart.com.au
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South Bunbury & Busselton, WA
